McCarthy Alaska Day Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Your Adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Guided rafting on a glacier-fed river in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park near McCarthy, Alaska

Table of Contents

If you don’t see your question answered here, our team is always happy to help. Visit our Contact Us page or call us at 888-609-RAFT to reach us by phone or by email at reservations@raftthewrangells.com, and we’ll be glad to assist with your trip planning.

Booking and Reservations

How do I book a day tour with McCarthy River Tours?

You can book directly through our website, call 888-609-RAFT, or email raftthewrangells@gmail.com. Early reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season (July-August), to secure your preferred date and time.

We offer hourly departures for most day trips, providing flexibility in scheduling.

Is a deposit required to reserve my spot?

Yes. We require a 20% non-refundable deposit at the time of booking to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due 7 days prior to your trip date.

Remaining balances are automatically charged to the card on file unless you make alternative payment arrangements before the due date.

Can I change my trip date after booking?

Date changes are subject to availability and must be requested at least 7 days before your original trip date. We’ll do our best to accommodate reasonable change requests, but cannot guarantee alternative dates during peak season.

What is your cancellation policy for day tours?

– Deposits: Non-refundable once paid
– More than 7 days before trip: Full refund of payments beyond the deposit
– Within 7 days of trip: No refunds available
– No-shows: No refunds

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment, especially given Alaska’s unpredictable weather and flight-dependent logistics.

Why are your deposits and payments non-refundable?

We’re a small, locally owned company specializing in private, customized trips. When you book with us, we reserve that time exclusively for your group and schedule one of our highly trained professional guides in advance.

Late cancellations are difficult to refill in remote Alaska, and we compensate our guides fairly even when trips cancel at the last minute. This policy helps us sustain fair employment practices while operating a seasonal business in a challenging environment.

Travel insurance provides flexibility while supporting the guides and team that make your experience possible.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Yes. Contact us directly to purchase gift certificates for specific dollar amounts or particular trips. Gift certificates are valid for one year from purchase date.

Trip Preparation and Packing

What should I wear for rafting and kayaking trips?

Alaska’s glacial rivers are extremely cold (34-40°F), which is why we provide professional drysuits to all rafting and kayaking participants. You’ll wear insulating layers underneath the drysuit.

Wear under your drysuit:
– Warm, moisture-wicking base layers (synthetic or wool—avoid cotton)
– Warm socks (wool or synthetic)
– Long sleeves and long pants recommended

We provide:
– Professional drysuit
– Type V high-float PFD
– Helmet (for rafting trips)
– River shoes

Additional items to bring:
– Guide gratuity (15-20% customary)
– Sunglasses with retainer strap
– Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
– Water bottle
– Snacks or light lunch
– Camera in waterproof case (optional)

What should I wear for glacier hiking?

Glacier hiking requires sturdy footwear and layered clothing for variable conditions. Temperatures can range from the 40s to 70s, and weather can change rapidly.

Essential clothing:
– Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with ankle support
– Warm base layers (synthetic or wool)
– Insulating mid-layer (fleece or lightweight down)
– Waterproof rain jacket and pants
– Warm hat and lightweight gloves
– Warm socks

We provide:
– Crampons (fitted to your boots)
– Trekking poles (available upon request)

Additional items to bring:
– Guide gratuity (15-20% standard)
– Backpack for carrying layers
– Sunglasses and sunscreen (glacier reflection is intense)
– Water bottle
– Snacks or sack lunch
– Camera

Can I bring my own safety equipment (PFD, helmet, crampons)?

For safety and liability reasons, we require all guests to use McCarthy River Tours equipment:

– PFDs and helmets: All equipment is U.S. Coast Guard-approved, regularly inspected, and maintained to current safety standards
– Crampons: We provide properly fitted crampons appropriate for glacier conditions
– Drysuits: Professional-grade drysuits are provided to all rafting and kayaking guests

Our standardized equipment ensures consistent safety across all trips and allows guides to quickly verify proper fit and function.

What should I bring for fly-out trips?

Fly-out trips combine elements of rafting or kayaking with bush plane travel. Pack according to the activity (rafting or kayaking guidelines above), plus:

– Light rain jacket (weather can change during flights)
– Any personal medications
– Snacks (trips are longer, typically 7-8 hours)
– Extra layers in case of flight delays

Weight restrictions: Bush planes have weight and space limitations. Pack efficiently and avoid bringing unnecessary items.

Do I need to bring my own food?

Rafting and kayaking trips: We recommend bringing light snacks and water. Bring a sack lunch for full-day trips.

Glacier hikes: Bring snacks and a sack lunch for full-day hikes. Half-day hikes require snacks and water.

Arranged lunches: We can organize sack lunches from Glacier View Grill with 24-hour advance notice. Contact us when booking to arrange.

Rafting and Kayaking

Do I need previous rafting or kayaking experience?

No. Our day trips are designed to accommodate beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Professional guides provide comprehensive safety briefings and paddling instruction before launching.

For the Float & Fly trip, which includes Class III rapids, we provide thorough instruction but the experience is more engaging than our gentler Kennicott River trips.

Can I participate if I can’t swim?

Yes. Non-swimmers are welcome on all trips. All guests wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFDs at all times on the water, and our guides are trained in swiftwater rescue.

However, you must inform us of your swimming ability when booking so guides can provide appropriate support and positioning in the raft or kayak.

What is the minimum age for rafting and kayaking trips?

Minimum ages vary by trip based on difficulty and duration:

– Kennicott River Rafting & Glacier Lake: 8+ (oar boat required for children 10 and under)
– Float & Fly: 10+
– Kennicott Lake Kayaking: 8+
– Nizina Lake Iceberg Kayak & Fly: 12+

These minimums reflect the physical demands, trip duration, and water conditions. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What happens if I fall out of the raft?

While uncommon on day trips, swimmers do occasionally occur. If you enter the water:

1. Your PFD keeps you afloat immediately
2. Your drysuit prevents cold water contact
3. Your guide implements rehearsed rescue procedures
4. You follow the defensive swimming position taught during safety briefing

All guests receive safety briefings covering what to do if separated from the raft. Guides carry rescue equipment and are trained in swiftwater rescue techniques.

How physically demanding are rafting and kayaking trips?

Most day trips are moderately active and suitable for individuals with reasonable fitness. Activities include:

– Paddling for several hours (if you choose paddle raft or kayak)
– Getting in and out of rafts or kayaks from gravel bars
– Walking short distances to launch sites
– Sitting in rafts or kayaks for extended periods

If you have specific health concerns or mobility limitations, consult with us prior to booking so we can ensure the trip is appropriate for your capabilities.

How many people are in each raft or kayak?

Rafts: Typically 4-6 guests plus a professional guide, depending on raft size and water conditions.

Kayaks: Inflatable kayaks are single or tandem depending on the trip and guest preference.

Important: We do not combine groups. Your boat is exclusively for your private party. A group of 2 or 5 will always be just your crew and your guide—never combined with strangers.

Can I choose between paddling and riding?

On most rafting trips, you can choose between:

– Paddle raft: Active participation, following guide commands
– Oar boat: Guide rows while you observe and enjoy scenery

Your guide will discuss options during the pre-trip briefing. Some rapids or water conditions may require specific boat types for safety.

Can I bring a camera or smartphone on the water?

Yes, at your own risk. We strongly recommend:

– Waterproof cases or dry bags for all electronics
– Securing devices with lanyards or straps
– Bringing only equipment you can afford to lose

We are not responsible for lost, damaged, or water-damaged personal items. Many guests choose to leave expensive cameras behind and enjoy the experience fully present.

Glacier Hiking

Do I need previous glacier hiking experience?

No. Our Root Glacier hikes are designed for first-time glacier hikers. Professional guides provide comprehensive crampon instruction and glacier travel techniques before stepping onto the ice.

We adjust routes and pacing based on your group’s comfort level and interests.

How difficult is glacier hiking?

Glacier hiking is rated moderate. Physical requirements include:

– Walking 5-8 miles round trip on varied terrain
– Navigating uneven surfaces, moraine rubble, and ice
– Maintaining balance while wearing crampons
– Ascending and descending slopes
– Hiking at elevation (glacier surface is higher than trailhead)

Half-day hikes: 5-6 miles, 4-6 hours total Full-day hikes: 6-8 miles, 7-8 hours total

Routes can be adjusted for your group’s capabilities, but a baseline fitness level is necessary.

What are crampons and how do they work?

Crampons are metal spikes that attach to your boots, providing traction on glacier ice. We provide professional crampons fitted specifically to your footwear.

Your guide will demonstrate:

– Proper crampon walking technique
– How to avoid tripping on crampon points
– Safe movement on ice surfaces
– When to adjust technique for different ice conditions

Most people adapt to crampon walking within 15-20 minutes. It feels unusual initially but becomes natural quickly.

What if I’m afraid of heights or crevasses?

Guides tailor routes to your comfort level. We can:

– Avoid areas requiring exposure to heights
– Provide closer supervision near crevasses
– Choose routes with less technical terrain
– Adjust the day’s plan based on your feedback

Inform your guide of any concerns during the pre-hike briefing. There’s no requirement to approach edges or peer into deep crevasses if that creates discomfort.

Can children participate in glacier hikes?

Yes. The minimum age is 8 for Root Glacier hikes. Children must:

– Be accompanied by a parent or guardian
– Have appropriate footwear for crampon attachment
– Be capable of hiking the distance (5-6 miles minimum)
– Follow guide instructions consistently

We’ve successfully guided many families with children. Adjust expectations for shorter attention spans and more frequent breaks.

What wildlife might we see on glacier hikes?

Wildlife on glacier hikes is less common than on river trips, but possible sightings include:

– Birds: Ravens, gulls, occasional raptors
– Mammals: Ground squirrels, marmots (especially on moraine approaches)
– Rare sightings: Bears occasionally cross glaciers, but this is uncommon

The glacier environment itself is the main attraction—ice formations, meltwater features, crevasses, and mountain views.

Fly-Out Trips

How do bush plane flights work?

Bush plane flights are conducted in small aircraft (typically Cessna 185 or similar) that can land on gravel bars and remote airstrips.

What to expect:
– Weight and balance considerations for passenger seating
– Pre-flight safety briefing from pilot
– 20-45 minute flights depending on destination
– Spectacular aerial views of glaciers and mountains
– Landing on gravel bars or backcountry airstrips

Are bush plane flights safe?

Alaska bush pilots are among the most skilled and experienced aviators in the world, operating in challenging conditions daily. Our partner pilots:

– Maintain commercial pilot certifications
– Have extensive Alaska flying experience
– Conduct thorough pre-flight inspections
– Make weather-based go/no-go decisions conservatively
– Follow strict maintenance schedules

However, bush flying involves inherent risks. Small aircraft are more affected by weather than commercial jets, and remote flying conditions can be variable.

What if weather prevents flying?

Bush plane flights are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe for flying:

– Your trip may be rescheduled to another day
– Alternative ground-based activities may be offered
– Refunds provided if rescheduling isn’t possible

Weather cancellations are made by the pilot based on visibility, wind, and overall safety assessment. These decisions are final and made in your best interest.

Are there weight limits for fly-out trips?

Yes. Bush planes have strict weight and balance limitations. Typical limits:

– Maximum per-passenger weight: ~250 lbs including gear
– Total aircraft weight capacity varies by plane type and conditions

If you exceed standard weight limits, inform us when booking. We can often accommodate with larger aircraft or multiple flights, but advance notice is essential.

Can I bring extra gear on fly-out trips?

Space in bush planes is extremely limited. Bring only essentials:

– One small backpack per person
– Camera equipment (kept secure during flight)
– Water and snacks

Large backpacks, extra clothing, or non-essential items should be left in McCarthy. Your guide will specify exactly what to bring.

How long are fly-out trips?

Nizina Lake Iceberg Kayak & Fly: ~8 hours total (includes flight time, kayaking, and return flight)

Float & Fly: ~7 hours (includes rafting time and return flight)

Actual duration varies based on weather, water conditions, and how much time your group spends exploring.

Safety and Equipment

What safety equipment is provided?

For all rafting and kayaking trips:
– Professional drysuits (full-body water protection)
– Type V high-float PFDs (personal flotation devices)
– Helmets (for rafting trips)
– River shoes (closed-toe, appropriate for water)

For all glacier hikes:
– Crampons (fitted to your boots)
– Trekking poles (available upon request)

All trips carry:
– Rescue equipment specific to activity
– Comprehensive first aid kits
– Communication devices (satellite phone or InReach)
– Emergency shelter and supplies

Are your guides certified and trained?

Yes. All McCarthy River Tours guides maintain current certifications in:

– Swiftwater Rescue: Technical river rescue training
– Wilderness First Responder (WFR): Minimum 80-hour wilderness medical certification
– Leave No Trace: Environmental ethics and minimal impact practices

Additionally, many guides hold:

– Avalanche awareness training
– Glacier travel certification
– Search and rescue team membership (Wrangell-St. Elias SAR)

Our guides also participate in annual continuing education and scenario-based training.

What happens in case of an emergency?

Our guides are trained to assess situations, stabilize injuries, and manage emergencies in remote settings. All trips carry satellite communication devices allowing contact with emergency services from anywhere in the park.

The remoteness of our operating area means response times differ from road-accessible locations. This is why guide training, proper equipment, and conservative decision-making are fundamental to our operations.

What if I have a medical condition?

You must disclose any medical conditions, injuries, or physical limitations when booking. This information allows guides to:

– Assess whether the trip is appropriate for your condition
– Prepare appropriate accommodations
– Bring specific first aid supplies if needed
– Monitor your condition throughout the trip

Failure to disclose relevant medical information may result in trip termination without refund if your condition compromises safety.

Are there any health requirements?

Participants should:

– Be in good general health appropriate for the activity level
– Be capable of following guide instructions
– Be able to move independently (or with disclosed assistance)
– Bring adequate supplies of required medications (plus 2-day backup)

If you have concerns about whether a trip is appropriate for your health status, contact us before booking for an honest assessment.

Weather, Wildlife & Logistics

What’s the weather like in summer?

Unpredictable and variable. Summer weather in Wrangell-St. Elias ranges from:

Temperature:
– Daytime: 50s-70s°F (occasionally reaching 80s°F)
– Can feel much colder on the water or glacier
– Wind chill significantly affects perceived temperature

Conditions:
– Sun, rain, wind, or all three in one day are common
– Weather patterns change rapidly in mountain valleys
– Rain is possible any day regardless of forecast

Trips proceed in all weather except severe safety concerns. Dress in layers and prepare for variable conditions.

Is there cell phone coverage during trips?

No. Cell coverage is limited to McCarthy and Kennecott areas. Once you launch onto rivers, kayak to remote lakes, or hike to glaciers, coverage disappears completely.

Embrace the disconnect. This is an opportunity to be fully present in one of America’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

Your guide carries communication devices for emergencies, ensuring contact capability when needed.

What wildlife might we encounter?

Alaska wildlife is abundant and sightings vary by trip and season. Common observations include:

Very Likely:
– Bald eagles
– Various waterfowl and shorebirds

Frequently Seen:
– Black bears and grizzly bears (especially on river trips)
– Moose

Occasionally Seen:
– Porcupines, ground squirrels, marmots
– Wolves (distant sightings)

Guides provide binoculars for better viewing and ensure all wildlife observations follow safe, respectful practices maintaining appropriate distances.

What if we encounter a bear?

Bear encounters are possible but typically uneventful when proper protocols are followed. All guides carry bear spray and are trained in bear behavior and encounter response.

Our protocols:
– Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears
– Scan ahead for wildlife before proceeding
– Maintain safe distances for observation
– Give bears space to move away
– Never approach or feed wildlife

If a bear encounter occurs, follow your guide’s instructions precisely. They will manage the situation based on bear behavior, distance, and terrain.

Can I fish during day trips?

Our trips focus on rafting, hiking, and kayaking experiences. The glacier-fed rivers we navigate are typically unsuitable for fishing due to silty, turbulent water.

If fishing is important to your Alaska experience, consider booking a dedicated fishing trip with a licensed guide rather than our adventure tours.

How do I get to McCarthy?

McCarthy is accessible by:

Driving: 60-mile McCarthy Road from Chitina (gravel, 1.5-2 hours)

Flying: Bush plane from Chitina, Glennallen, or Anchorage

Shuttle: Daily service from Glennallen during summer

We provide detailed transportation guidance when you book, including rental car policies, flight schedules, and shuttle contact information. See our McCarthy Trip Planner for comprehensive transportation details.

Where should I stay in McCarthy?

We recommend:

– Kennicott River Lodge: Most convenient location, close to our office
– Glacier View Campground: For campers and RV travelers
– Various cabins and lodges in McCarthy and Kennecott

See Explore McCarthy Alaska for comprehensive lodging, dining, and local information.

What time should I arrive in McCarthy?

For morning trips (7-9 AM departures): Arrive the evening before your trip

For afternoon trips: Arrive by mid-morning to allow check-in time

Meeting locations and times are confirmed when you book. Allow buffer time for McCarthy Road travel, which can take longer than expected.

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Still Have Questions?

This FAQ covers common questions, but every trip and every guest is different. If you have specific concerns not addressed here:

Call: (888) 609-RAFT
Email: reservtions@raftthewrangells.com
Hours: 8 AM – 7 PM Alaska Time (Summer) | 8 AM – 4 PM (Winter, Mon-Thu)

We’re happy to discuss which trip matches your interests, what to expect during your dates, and how to prepare effectively for your Alaska adventure.

Professional guides. Quality equipment. Small groups. Genuine wilderness access. This is how day tours should work in America’s largest national park.